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Step 1
Radiation therapy may be given either externally or internally.
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Step 2
External radiation utilizes powerful X-ray machines to direct radiation to the location of the cancer. This type of treatment is usually performed on an outpatient basis every 4 or 5 days for several weeks.
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Step 3
With internal radiation, a radioactive substance is sealed in a container and placed near the site of the tumor to kill off cancerous cells. Due to complications that may arise from internal radiation and the delicacy of the procedure, it's usually done on an inpatient basis.
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Step 4
Radiation is commonly used in place of surgery when a patient refuses surgical removal of cancerous tumors or when the cancer has become inoperable.
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Step 5
A CT scan is usually performed prior to having external radiation. Most patients who undergo external radiation complete a procedure combining CT scans, computer and precise measurements prior to receiving radiation. This process, which takes anywhere from 15 minutes to 2 hours, is designed to help doctors pinpoint the exact location of the tumor to prevent radiation damage to normal cells.
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Step 6
Ask your doctor what side effects you can expect as a result of radiation therapy. Some of the more common side effects include nausea, lack of energy, skin irritation at the treatment site, diarrhea and vomiting.
